The Importance of Water in your Pets Diet
Water plays a vital part in keeping our pets healthy and alive. Most of the water cats and dogs need is in their food although having fresh water throughout the day help’s replenish their bodies. Water is essential for forming many functions in your pets body as well as cushioning the joints and spinal cord, waste removal and much more. It is the single most important nutrient for the body.
Dehydration Signs
Dehydration occurs if your pet is not eating or drinking enough. Pet’s who exercise regularly or are exposed to hot, humid weather are more likely to become dehydrated. Signs of pet dehydration can be:
- Moving slower than usual
- Sunken Eyes
- Tiredness
- Loss of appetite
- Dry nose and gums
- Panting
When pet’s don’t consume enough water, their skin becomes less elastic. To test for this, do a gentle skin pinch over loose skin on your pet’s shoulder blades. If the skin bounces back quickly and easily it is a good indication that your pet is hydrated.
Keeping your Pet Hydrated
There are lots of ways to ensure your pet is drinking enough water. When it is hot it is a good idea to monitor your pet’s water to make sure they are staying hydrated and to keep topping it up if need be. If you have a water bowl outside it is recommended to clean it every day as contamination is more likely. Some more useful tips are listed below:
- Provide fresh, clean, clear drinking water each and every day
- Provide multiple water bowls in different locations throughout the house
- Invest in a drinking fountain for pets, cats especially like running water
- Test different bowl types – pets especially cats have preferences for what type of bowl they will drink from
- Take collapsible water bowls in your car and on adventures
We have a great selection of collapsible water bowls from Jack Pyke available to buy in store.
         